When To Apply To University of Free State (UFS) 2026

The University of the Free State (UFS) is thrilled to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 academic year! Whether you’re interested in undergraduate or postgraduate studies, UFS offers a diverse range of programs across multiple fields. With an emphasis on research and innovation, UFS provides a dynamic learning environment designed to equip you for success in your chosen career.

Applications for all available courses for the 2026 academic year will open on April 1, 2025. Many of UFS’s programs are highly sought after and have limited spaces, so applying early gives you a better chance of securing a place in your preferred course.

UFS Application Dates for 2026: Know When to Apply

Applications for both online and paper submissions for the 2026 academic year at the University of the Free State (UFS) will close at various times between May and September 2025, depending on the course. To avoid missing the deadline, it is important to verify when applications for your desired course will close. Make sure to plan ahead and submit your application on time.

Applying for Admission to the University of the Free State (UFS) for 2026

The University of the Free State (UFS) welcomes applications for the 2026 academic year. To ensure a smooth online application process, please have the following details ready:

Personal Details: This includes your full name, date of birth, ID number (or passport number for international applicants), and contact information.
Contact Information: Provide your physical address, email address, and phone number (optional).
Financial Information: Indicate the address of the person responsible for your student account (if applicable).
Supporting Documents: You will need to upload scanned copies of the following documents in a readable electronic format:
- Certified copy of your South African ID document or passport (for international applicants)
- Certified copies of all previous qualification certificates* (e.g., National Senior Certificate, diplomas, degrees)
- Certified copies of academic transcripts for all previous qualifications

Note: Certified copies should not be older than three months at the time of application.

What you DO NOT NEED for your University of Free State UFS Admissions Application for 2026

The following are irrelevant to your applications.

The Hard copy of the application form. The University of Free State UFS accepts online applications only
Application or Processing Fee. It is a free service with no fee payment required
The hard copy of supporting documents.

The University of Free State UFS Application Requirements for 2026

During the online application process, you will be required to upload the following documents. Before applying, make sure you have them ready.

South African Applicants

Mobile phone and an active email address
Your ID if you are a South African citizen
Your passport if you are an international student
Your parent’s ID or passport if you are younger than 18
Your final Grade 11 results or the equivalent thereof with the school’s stamp
Your mid-year Grade 12 results or the equivalent thereof
Grade 12 certificate or the equivalent thereof if you have already matriculated
Your academic record, only if you are/were a student at another institution of higher learning
USAf accreditation from the examination board for South African universities
Universities South Africa (USAf) Certificate of Exemption is required if you do not have an Endorsed South African Senior Certificate.

Foreign Applicants

Your passport or South African identity document
Your final Grade 11 results with the school’s stamp
If available, your final Grade 12 results with the school’s stamp
If available, a certified copy of your school-leaving certificate
If applicable, proof that you are currently enrolled for the Advanced Subsidiary/Advanced level
If applicable, study record (academic transcript) with a certificate of conduct and/or qualification certificate if you have obtained your degree
Obtain mandatory South African medical aid
Apply for your study visa.
Proof of payment of the USAf fee made directly to USAf
Uncertified senior/school leaving certificate
Uncertified academic records of UFS discretionary year studies

UFS Application Fees

The online application is free. Please keep in mind that only online applications are accepted unless otherwise stated on the University of Free State UFS’s website.

The University of Free State UFS Entry Requirements for 2026

Some programmes require students to submit additional information as part of their application. Applications without the additional requirements will not be considered

Admission requirements for all the University of Free State UFS programs are included in the Prospectus booklet and pamphlets, as well as general admission information, qualification structures, and information on where each program is offered. Prospective students should check the subject and grade requirements of the program they want to study before applying.

The University of Free State UFS Application Process for 2026

To apply to the University of Free State UFS, follow the steps outlined below.

Step № 1: OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Apply online. Visit https://apply.ufs.ac.za

Step № 2: COMPLETE YOUR FORMS

Your application is submitted. You will receive a student number and acknowledgement of your application. If you have not submitted the required documents, you will be requested to do so in order to finalise your application

Step № 3: SELECTION

Your application is evaluated by the university. Should your evaluation be positive, you will receive a conditional offer to study – SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY OF SPACE.
Selection programmes are excluded. If you have indicated in your application that you require on-campus residence, you will also receive correspondence from Housing and Residence Affairs.
Note that qualifying for your programme of choice does not guarantee admission.

Step № 4: FUNDING

Source and secure financial support for your studies

Step № 5: FINAL OFFER

When the final Grade 12 results are released in January 2026, all applications will be re-evaluated; you will receive a final offer if your evaluation is positive. Take note that meeting the minimum admission requirements for your programme of choice does not guarantee admission.

Step № 6: ACCEPT OFFER

Accept the offer online within the stipulated time frame. If you fail to accept the final offer before the deadline, it will be withdrawn, and you will lose your space. Note that limited spaces are available.

Contact UFS

Bloemfontein Campus: +27 51 401 9111
Qwaqwa Campus: +27 58 718 5000
South Campus: +27 51 401 9111

Visit the official website HERE

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